Bachelor of Science - Food Science and Technology major

Bachelor of Science - Food Science and Technology major

Your guide to majoring in Food Science and technology with the Bachelor of Science at RMIT. 

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Student type:
Learning mode:
On campus
Entry score:

See course admissions

Duration:
Full-time 3 years
Part-time 6 years
Fees:

Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP)

Next intake:
February, July
Location:
Melbourne City
Learning mode:
On campus
Entry score:

See course admissions

Duration:
Full-time 3 years
Fees:

AU$40,320 (2025 annual)

Next intake:
February, July
Location:
Melbourne City

Introduction to the major

When you choose Food Science and Technology in Bachelor of Science at RMIT you enjoy flexibility with a degree that allows you to pursue a specialisation in food science and technology while gaining practical real-world experience.

This exciting field combines scientific principles with the art of creating safe, nutritious and delicious food. As a food scientist, you will explore the chemistry, microbiology and engineering behind food production and processing.

In state-of-the-art laboratories and production facilities, food scientists analyse and experiment with ingredients, develop innovative preservation techniques, and ensure quality and safety throughout the food supply chain. From understanding the molecular structure of flavours to optimising food packaging and storage, you will play a vital role in improving food quality, enhancing nutritional value and meeting the demands of a rapidly evolving industry.

By choosing this major, you will gain practical skills in food safety analysis, innovative food processing techniques and product development. Your knowledge will empower you to address global challenges, such as food security, sustainability and food-related diseases, while also satisfying consumers’ growing desire for healthy and convenient food options.

Prepare to embark on a rewarding career where you can make a tangible impact on the way we eat, nourish our bodies and shape the future of food.

Being able to create new food products from start to finish in the Bundoora facilities was a standout of the degree. The scientific food knowledge learnt, paired with both fundamental and critical business skills has prepared me to launch into the food industry with confidence.

- Julia Vaccarella, Bachelor of Science (Food Science and Technology) 

About the Bachelor of Science

With the Bachelor of Science at RMIT you will enjoy a cross-disciplinary, flexible and personalised degree that allows you to pursue a range of diverse interest areas across science. You will gain practical real-world experience throughout your degree.

Why choose to major in Food Science and Technology with the Bachelor of Science?

Industry-relevant experience

Learn from experienced practitioners and engage with industry through work placements and projects.

In-demand skills

This major covers the full range of food technology science, preparing you for a number of career paths.

World-class facilities

Study in our state-of-the-art Food Innovation and Research Centre, developing practical skills in an industry-standard setting.

Career outcomes

RMIT’s Bachelor of Science will equip you with the expertise, experience and professional skills to have a successful career as a scientist.

With the practical, research and other essential skills developed and gained through your study in this degree, you can go on to work or undertake further study in a range of areas.

If you choose to major in Food Science and Technology some potential careers, you might want to consider after you complete our program include working for large food processing companies in research and product development, food safety or quality assurance roles.

Potential careers for graduates of the Bachelor of Science who choose to major in Food Science and Technology include:

  • Industry and technology, including agriculture, biotechnology, 
  • Chemical, data science, food and water
  • Analytical laboratories 
  • Health and biomedical laboratories 
  • Environmental, biodiversity, conservation science 
  • Government agencies and laboratories 
  • Academic research and further study 
  • Education
  • Not for profit institutions and charities 
  • Science policy and communication
  • Sustainable development 
  • Product development
  • Technical consultancy and sales.

Understanding your course options

This combination of knowledge and skills will prepare you for the complexities of the modern science landscape and equip you to make a meaningful impact in your chosen career.

As a student in the RMIT Bachelor of Science, you will have the opportunity to focus your studies on a single major complimented with a related generalist and advanced minors, or to select a second major and graduate your degree with a double major. Whether you chose a single or double major, your degree will consist of 24 subjects total.

The below guide will help you understand your options:

Food science and technology major subjects

You will undertake eight Food science and technology subjects focusing on:

  • Introduction to microbiology for food and nutrition
  • Food and Nutritional Chemistry
  • Food processing technology
  • Rheology and food biophysics
  • Food microbiology
  • Food safety analysis
  • Food manufacturing: Animal products
  • Food packaging and labelling

By electing to choose a second major instead of a combination of minors with your major in Food science and technology, you will focus on your studies equally on your two areas of specialisation.

The double major option consists of eight subjects in each chosen major.

RMIT Bachelor of Science - double major course structure

Four subjects per semester
Year 1 Semester 1

Foundations of Science (4 subjects):
Physical sciences, Life sciences, Maths, Data and Science communication
Semester 2 Food science and technology major (2 subjects)
Second major (2 subjects) 
Year 2 Food science and technology major (4 subjects)
Second major (4 subjects)
Year 3 Food science and technology major (2 subjects)
Second major (2 subjects)
Electives (2 subjects)
Capstone project (2 subjects)
Please note: Some majors have constraints on combinations of majors/minors and electives.

Complementary majors

The following majors allow for a double major with Food science and technology:

Biological sciences major

Biological studies involve keen observation, classical experimentation, and the development of new technologies and applications. With their new ideas and modern tools, biologists are driving many innovations in today’s world, ranging from molecular engineering that improves lives to tackling the numerous threats facing the biodiversity of our planet.

Biotechnology major

Biotechnologists play a crucial role in advancing scientific knowledge, developing innovative products and addressing societal challenges through the application of biotechnology principles and techniques. The Biotechnology major gives you breadth of knowledge across life sciences and related disciplines, practical skills in the lab and field, and a specialisation in your chosen area.

Chemistry major

Whether looking at climate change, harnessing renewable energy sources or discovering medical breakthroughs, chemistry is vital in understanding and developing technologies of the future. The Chemistry major will strengthen your practical skills in laboratory science, building on specific chemical and materials analysis training which include chemical analysis, laboratory science, data analysis and materials science.

Mathematics major

With the mathematics major you will learn to think logically, approach problems in analytical and creative ways, and prepare for career opportunities in areas such as banking finance, information security, cybersecurity, public health, logistics, government agencies and research organisations, mathematical biology, and environmental modelling to name a few.

Statistics

Statistics is the study of data, from design, collection, visualisation, analyses and interpretation. Informed statistical insight is often crucial in influencing and guiding the strategies and decisions taken by organisations, industries, and businesses.  In the Statistics major, you’ll be taught to think logically, and learn how to approach theoretical and real-world problems in analytical and creative ways and apply your knowledge to professional and academic contexts.   

The single major option is not available for students who wish to select the Nutrition major. Instead this major is complemented by your choice from a range of double major options.

Bachelor of Science full course information

This is just one of the 8 majors that you can choose from. Visit the Bachelor of Science course page to find full course information, explore your study options, and get details on entry requirements, pathways, fees, plan structure and more.

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

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aboriginal flag
torres strait flag

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.

More information